I received a sample of this blend which was the start of my love affair with it.

In the tin, the cognac smell is in front, but you can pick up on the VA's in there. There are broken flakes, curlies, and spun cut Virginias and jet Black Cavendish to give a visually appealing look to the blend. A new tin may be a bit too moist from some, but nothing a 30 minute dry won't fix.

Upon lighting, the there is a hint of the cognac, but there is a spiciness which sticks throughout the smoke. There is a sweet taste from the Virginias but it's not overly so. Just enough to keep it an enjoyable smoke without any goopy residue once the fine grey ash is dumped.

Since this blend is based heavily on Virginias, I'm sure it could bite if really pushed, but a steady pace produced no bite for me.

This is a high quality blend from Rattray's which will live in my cellar for years to come.